We are proud to announce that two of our young researcher colleagues, Attila Csomos and Farkas Domahidy, have recently obtained their PhD degrees. It is a particular pleasure that both were awarded the “summa cum laude” distinction by the Scientific Committee, reflecting their outstanding scientific achievements. 

Attila Csomos conducts research in the Chemical Development team at BrainVisionCenter, focusing on small-molecule fluorophores and functional probes for microscopy. His doctoral work explored the conformational locking of the chromophore of the Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP), with the aim of enabling its application in small-molecule form for fluorescence imaging. His research resulted in the development of a novel family of fluorescent zinc sensors, as well as two new heteroaromatic fluorophore scaffolds. These advances open new possibilities in neuroscience research by providing stronger fluorescence signals, particularly when used with the ATLAS two-photon microscopes developed at BVC. 

Farkas Domahidy, a chemical engineer, focuses his research on DNA-binding fluorescent probes. His PhD work investigated the relationship between molecular structure and fluorescence behavior, with particular emphasis on thiazole orange derivatives. A key outcome of his research is a comprehensive study that, for the first time, systematically compares the fluorescence enhancement and PCR applicability of the most widely used thiazole-orange-based DNA-binding dyes. This work enables a more informed selection of dye compounds for PCR-based applications. In addition, his research includes the development of new DNA-binding dye molecules and the investigation of their fluorescence enhancement mechanisms. 

The achievements of our colleagues highlight not only their individual excellence but also the strength of BrainVisionCenter’s interdisciplinary research environment, where chemistry, biology, and advanced imaging technologies come together to drive new scientific discoveries. 

We warmly congratulate Attila and Farkas on their outstanding accomplishments and wish them continued success in their scientific careers. 

Researchers at the BrainVisionCenter participated in the Brain Awareness Week event series hosted at Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), where they showcased their work to hundreds of interested students and offered a glimpse into the world of neuroscience. 

Our researchers are no strangers to education or to introducing the next generation to the mysteries of scientific life-especially when they can do so through engaging and interactive demonstrations. During the event, visitors explored key concepts of brain research using a LEGO mouse model, alongside our world-first device, Moculus. 

The Moculus is the result of a collaboration between the BrainVisionCenter and the HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine (HUN-REN KOKI). This virtual reality (VR) headset, specifically optimized for mice, opens up entirely new perspectives in the study of brain function, particularly in visual and sensory processing. 

By using Moculus, our researchers contribute to advances in restoring vision, as well as to improving the diagnosis and future treatment of central nervous system disorders. 

The event provided an excellent opportunity to bring science closer to the younger generation and to demonstrate how curiosity can evolve into a career in research. 

It is always a special pleasure for us to welcome young, talented students to our Research Institute and give them a glimpse into the world of science.  

Recently, students from Eötvös High School in Budapest visited us; they were given this opportunity in recognition of their outstanding results in the János Irinyi National Chemistry Competition. During the visit, they were able to experience firsthand how research work is conducted in practice and the environment in which the latest scientific findings are generated.  

The program not only provided a glimpse into everyday laboratory life but also served as a source of inspiration for the participants:  

“It was fascinating to see a functioning lab, especially one dedicated to brain research. Thanks to this, I can better imagine what a researcher’s daily life looks like.”  

“It was great to visit such a high-level research facility, get a glimpse of the working conditions, and see how well-equipped a laboratory in Hungary can be. I would have happily spent more time there.”  

“Overall, this program inspired me to consider pursuing research in chemistry in the future. I would definitely recommend this opportunity to anyone who asks!” 

We believe that opportunities like these help bring the next generation even closer to science-and perhaps the researchers of the future are being born right now. 

We are pleased to announce that BVC has become the fourth organization in Hungary to join the European Animal Research Association (EARA), an international professional community, represents credible, evidence-based, and transparent communication working with animals in scientific research across Europe.

EARA brings together more than 200 member organizations and actively supports responsible professional dialogue, as well as accurate information for decision-makers and the public.

This membership is a natural step for BVC: compliance with legal and ethical standards, along with open and responsible communication, has always been a core principle of our Institute’s operations.

We are particularly proud that Dr. Fedor Flóra Zsófia, Head of our Animal Protection Department, participates in the organization’s work as BVC’s official representative, and also serves as an editor of EARA Hungary’s X (formerly Twitter) platform.